It seems like Tottenham Hotspur’s chances of winning any game of football hinge on Micky van de Ven’s fitness — with Spurs now set to host Manchester United on Sunday.
Van de Ven was in contention to face Manchester United but during his absence, Ange Postecoglou’s side have sorely missed the Dutchman’s incredible recovery pace to bail them out at the back.
With Cristian Romero’s injury being a slow-burner as well, Tottenham have missed their two rocks at the back for much of the campaign.
As a result, Postecoglou would have been hoping that Micky van de Ven is deemed fit enough to start against Manchester United.
Spurs have been leaky at the back this season, something Manchester United could capitalise on.
Micky van de Ven to miss Tottenham vs Manchester United clash
While Tottenham demolished United 3-0 at Old Trafford in the reverse fixture, the Red Devils do not look as easy to play against as they were during Erik ten Hag earlier this season.
Under Ruben Amorim, the Red Devils have particularly stepped up their game when facing the ‘Big Six’ sides — beating Manchester City, restricting Liverpool to a draw and knocking Arsenal out of the FA Cup.
Ange Postecoglou will be aware of the threat Manchester United pose and be particularly disappointed about the fact that Van de Ven has been ruled out of the much-awaited clash, according to the Daily Mail.
Van de Ven returned to Tottenham’s matchday squad in the Europa League.
But since then, the pacey defender is yet to make an appearance for Spurs.
Van de Ven was rushed back from injury for Tottenham’s 4-3 defeat against Chelsea, as per the club’s medical staff; a decision that they must be ruing to this day. Van de Ven is arguably Tottenham’s most important player and his absence in a contest against Manchester United of all sides is a huge blow for Ange Postecoglou.
The three Tottenham players back from injury vs Man United
But three Tottenham players could return from injury against Manchester United: Guglielmo Vicario, James Maddison and Destiny Udogie.
Whether all the three players are given the nod to start remains a mystery.
But Ange Postecoglou will be relieved that he has Vicario, Maddison and Udogie to call upon now.
Ultimately, Tottenham should be looking forward to the contest regardless as it gives them the chance to bounce back from their 2-1 loss against Aston Villa in the FA Cup.